Quick Facts on Ireland

Characteristics of Ireland

Multi-talented

Intuitive

Oneness

Idealistic

Philanthropy

Independent

Perfection

Etymology & Historical Origin - Ireland

Ireland is what we’d obviously call a “place name” in reference to the European independent island state which is also one of the so-called Six Celtic Nations (the others being Scotland, the Isle of Man, Brittany, Cornwall and Wales). Ireland received her name from the early Érainn people – essentially evolving from the ancient Celtic Φīwerjū to the Old Irish Ériu to the modern Éire (Erin) – and is said to mean “land of abundance; fertile land” in reference to the island’s lush landscape. In the English language, the country is referred to as Ireland, but in Ireland’s own native Irish-Gaelic tongue it’s called Éire. Ireland is also referred to as The Emerald Isle for its abundance of greenery and The Land of Saints and Scholars. The latter nickname was given to Ireland because while the rest of Europe was falling into the Dark Ages (after the collapse of the Roman Empire), Ireland was experiencing its golden age of scholarship and monastic learning. In fact, if it weren’t for the Irish, the Roman Catholic Church may not have survived the illiterate barbaric societies which overtook Europe post 4th century. Éire has St. Patrick to thank for that, as he tirelessly converted the Celtic Kings to Christianity which ultimately allowed monasteries to flourish. Ireland is also known for its lively and colorful Celtic culture – filled with distinctive music, dance and art. Its history is one of survival with a fighting warrior spirit. Not only in wars among brothers (the ancient tribal kingdoms were always picking fights, raiding and pilfering from one another) – but fighting off invasions instigated by the Vikings, the Normans, and the English. Let’s be clear: Ireland’s history is not always one of shamrocks and leprechauns. They have been brutally mistreated along the way – persecuted for their religious beliefs (ever since the Church of England became Protestant) and the Irish were routinely stripped of their land (which was given to the Normans, Scots and other British royal ass-kissers). It’s no surprise why the Irish are so steadfast proud of being Irish; they even have their own saying: Éirinn go Brách (Ireland forever). In any case, Ireland does not have a long history of usage as a “given name”. It was most likely inspired by the high-profile celebrity couple Alec Baldwin and Kim Basinger who named their daughter Ireland Eliesse Baldwin in 1995 (they have since divorced).

Popularity of the Name Ireland

Ireland first appeared on America’s female naming charts in 1998, a few years following the birth of Ireland Baldwin (by the way – Ireland Baldwin is only part Irish – through her father). In any case, this is a “place” name which never really stuck. It’s been falling on and off the Top 1000 list for about 15 years now; definitely not a top favorite. The only other country-specific names on the female charts today are America, India, Jordan, Kenya and Malaysia (although there are other Irish place names like Tara and Shannon). Ireland is the least popular of them all. People seem rather divided on this name – they either adore it for its beauty and originality – or they think it’s silly and impractical as a given name. Many people seem to think it works better as a middle name. Still, we can’t help it – we like Ireland as a girl’s name – even though Erin means the exact same thing and is arguably the more subtle way of getting your point across. One thing we do know, though. Irish people who actually live in Ireland would never give this name to their iníonacha leanbh (baby daughters). It’s more of an Irish-American thing to do.

Popularity of the Girl Name Ireland

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Cultural References to the Baby Name - Ireland

Literary Characters of the Baby Name Ireland

Ireland We cannot find any significant literary characters with the first name Ireland.

Popular Songs on Ireland

Fair Ireland - a song by Peter, Paul & Mary

Give Ireland Back to the Irish - a song by Paul McCartney

If We Only Had Old Ireland Over Here - by Hank Locklin

Ireland - a song by Garth Brooks

Ireland - a song by Tori Amos

Say Ireland - a song by Gilbert O'Sullivan

So Cold in Ireland - a song by The Cranberries

Something About Ireland - by Deacon Blue & Ricky Ross

Song for Ireland - a song by Clannad

They Wounded Old Ireland - a song by Andy M. Stewart

Children's Books on the Baby Name Ireland

A Pot o' Gold (Kathleen Krull) - Subtitled: A Treasury of Irish Stories, Poetry, Folklore, and (of Course) Blarney. Though it may only be a small emerald isle in the middle of the sea, Ireland’s heritage is very large indeed. Its rich history of literature and lore has inspired imaginations for hundreds of years. In A Pot o’ Gold, noted writer Kathleen Krull and beloved illustrator David McPhail bring this legacy to life. Created for families, this anthology compiles classic and rare examples of Irish culture, including stories, poems, songs, recipes, and even a little blarney. From legends of leprechauns and fairies to the classic poetry of Yeats and Joyce, the treasures herein invite children and parents, brothers and sisters—even grandparents and grandchildren—to share the wonders of Ireland. Recommended for ages 7-10.

Tales from Old Ireland (Malachy Doyle) - This enchanting collection of favorite Irish folk tales deserves to be read aloud at every hearth. Described by Malachy Doyle in captivating language, the larger-than-life characters, dramatic landscapes, and magical happenings of all the tales, including the famous legend of the bewitched Children of Lir, are also brought vividly to life by the luminous art of Niamh Sharkey, making this a book that will transport readers to another world for many happy hours. Recommended for ages 8-12.

This Is Ireland (Miroslav Sasek) - On the heels of the runaway bestsellers This is New York and This is Paris, Universe is pleased to reissue another title from M. Sasek's beloved and nostalgic children's travel series. Like the other Sasek classics, This is Ireland is a facsimile edition of his original book from the 1960s and is still timely and current in every way. The brilliant, vibrant illustrations have been meticulously preserved, remaining true to his vision more than 40 years later and, where applicable, facts have been updated for the twenty-first century, appearing on a "This is...Today" page at the back of the book. The stylish, charming illustrations, coupled with Sasek's witty, playful narrative, makes for a perfect souvenir that will delight both children and their parents, many of whom will remember this book from their childhood. This is Ireland brings the Emerald Isle to life, where the shamrock grows and a leprechaun stands at the end of every rainbow, guarding a crock of gold. There's Dublin with its bustling crowds, tall steeples, and Trinity College; there's Clonmacnois, the burial place of kings; there's the Blarney Stone to kiss for eloquence, and much, much more in this verdant, friendly land filled with enchanted lakes and mountains that fall steep to the sea. Recommended for ages 5-8.

Too Many Leprechauns (Stephen Krensky) - On St. Patrick's Day, leprechauns are lucky. But on every other day of the year, they make for noisy neighbors -- and they're turning the entire town of Dingle upside down! Fortunately, Finn O'Finnegan always has a clever plan brewing, and this time, with a little luck of the Irish, it's a scheme that just might fool even the cleverest of creatures. Recommended for ages 4-8.

Famous People Named Ireland

Famous People Named Ireland - We cannot find any celebrities or significantly famous people with the first name Ireland.

Children of Famous People Named Ireland

Famous People Who Named Their Daughter Ireland - Alec Baldwin (actor); Kim Basinger (actress)

Ireland - Girl Baby Name - Historic Figures

Ireland - We cannot find any historically significant people with the first name Ireland.

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Personality of the Girl Name Ireland

The number Nine personality represents the completion or ending of the cycle, and a need for perfection. This is the personality that moves from "self" to a greater understanding and compassion for the human condition and the world order. They want to make the world a better place. Nines are capable of great spiritual and humanitarian achievements. They are courageous and fearless, able to fight great battles on behalf of worthy causes. These personalities will not tolerate injustice. They are compassionate people with a strong sensitivity to others. They are able to both educate and inspire. Friendships and relationships are the lifeblood to the Nine, and they place a high value on love and affection. Nines are often exceptionally gifted artistically, and they have a keen imagination and enterprising mind.